How to Convert Vanilla Beans to Extract

Vanilla's distinct aroma evokes ice cream, home baked cookies and cakes but vanilla and vanilla extract have a multitude of uses. Aromatherapists and perfumers use vanilla. Dieticians at St. George's Hospital in London have shown that vanilla can be used for weight loss because it reduces cravings for sweets. Vanilla can relieve minor burns and when it's spread on your skin can repel insects.

Things You'll Need

• 6 premium vanilla beans
• Scissors
• 1 quart Mason jar with lid
• 2 cups vodka
• Spatula
• Funnel
• Small bottles

Instructions

1. Cut the vanilla beans in half the long way, leaving them attached at one end.

2. Clean the Mason jar and its lid thoroughly in hot soapy water. Rinse well and pour the vodka into the jar.

3. Put the cut vanilla beans in the vodka. Use a spatula to press them down so they're fully covered. Cover the jar.

4. Place the jar with the vodka and vanilla beans in a cool, dark place. Taste the extract after four weeks. If it's not strong enough, let it go as long as eight weeks.

5. Use the funnel to transfer the vanilla extract from the Mason jar to small bottles. Put a vanilla bean in each bottle and cap tightly.

Tips & Warnings

• Save extract jars so they can be refilled. The size of the small bottles will determine how many you need. Add 1 tsp of simple syrup per cup of vodka for a sweeter extract. Substitute brandy or rum for the vodka. The vanilla extract will continue to "brew" in the small jars.

References

• Vanilla Information

Resources

• Source for Premium Vanilla Beans
• Unexpected Ways to Use Vanilla
• Vanilla Recipes